Hot Rods Should I re build a DeSoto 291 HEMI?

Exactly!
I think we have foud more out of spec than in... Do the same with the heads. It is common to need corrections.

.

 

I might as well add my .02. Decking the block and surfacing the heads for compression is an alternative.....just not in this case. A new set of forged pistons will cure several obstacles at once, such as proper clearances and the added compression. It will be money well spent. Send your cam core to Gary for a regrind and a set of adjustable pushrods. Order the intake from HotHeads. His price is as good as anyones on that piece. Use an M50 oil pump.(check pan for clearance) 727 or 518 transmission.

 

I have a complete running chrysler industrial 54 331 if interested - can be seen running on utube - hemi runs again

 

Hey,
Yeah I saw that one. I am one of the 3 lookers
Don

 

Well I got the bad news yesterday..............my block is s****! The broken rod slapped around and cracked the block internally and broke through the water jacket.
I do not know why I am the mechanic I had look at it before I dropped it off did not notice that this could be the death notice.

Also the machine shop should have noticed it earlier, but I take the blame and the cost of the hot tank was reduced by the owner of the shop.

So on with my search........................I found another complete 291 DeSoto in my area needing all the work I just completed on the other 291. It does turn over it states the person selling it.

So what to do?

I am asking several people and actively searching for a larger Hemi to work with.

Thanks to all for the great advice.

 

So what years would that A-727 transmission come from?
I will start searching for one of those also.

I am told there is a engine and transmission available .....Rebuilt 1972 Dodge 440 and a rebuilt A-727 TorqueFlite Transmission.

Would this be something I should pursue?

 

Do yourself ( and your checkbook ) a favor and forget about 291 Desotos ... any Desoto engines and BUY yourself a 1956 up Chrysler HEMI ... if you must have a HEMI. Price the parts and you will see a 1956 up Chrysler is the less expensive old HEMI to buy parts for.

.

 

Adaptors that I'm aware of are all for S.B.s. Small block 727 from ,oh say, '69 through the mid 80s. Pick up trucks & vans are a good place to look.

'54 & up Chrs would be cheaper & easier to find parts for.

 

OK, I stand corrected
But stay away from the Desoto and Dodge HEMIS ... the parts are a lot more difficult to find and priced accordingly.

You can just about buy anything for the " 1954 " up Chrysler HEMIS ... AND ... at more reasonable prices.

 

Nope. Unlike the other Mopars, DeSoto never had a poly version of their hemi. The 57 and later "Dodge/DeSoto Firesweep"s were not really DeSotos but re-badged Dodges with Dodge powertrains.

 

Could we see more pics of your 40SD?

 

I am building a Desoto for my 1900lb hot rod, but in light of the 4500-5000lb YACHT that you are planning to put this motor in, I am inclined to agree with Deuce. Get a Chrysler. It'll be cheaper to build, and the extra torque will be a big benefit in a car that size.